Passwords are often the only thing standing between your data and a hacker, so it’s important to use strong passwords for every single online account. Handling your passwords with care ensures that you and only you are allowed access to your accounts.
A password manager is a big step up from keeping passwords in a spreadsheet or in a note on your phone. That’s because a password manager makes it possible to have unique, random passwords for every single account, storing them all in one place for seamless access when you need them.
If you’re new to the idea of a password manager, it can be daunting to pick the right one for you. Read on to figure out what you need in your password manager and how to make the most of one in your digital life.
What is a password manager?
At home and work, you have more online accounts than you can possibly remember. And since 74% of all breaches involve human error and 62% of people always use the same password, it’s essential that each account has a unique password to protect your data. But how are you supposed to remember all those strong, unique passwords? You can’t. But a password manager can.
A password manager is a tool that does the work of creating, remembering and filling in your passwords. Simply log into an online account for the first time and a password management tool will store your username and password so every time you go back your credentials will be filled in automatically.
What do you need in a password manager?
Before diving into which password manager is right for you, first take stock of your needs. Key questions to consider include:
- How many devices do you own?
- What are those devices (Android, Apple)?
- Who do you need to share with?
- What other type of information would you want to store besides passwords?
- Are you concerned about data breaches and your personal information being at risk?
Once you’re clear on your needs, it can be easier to eliminate password managers that clearly lack device integration and password sharing, and don’t offer the robust storage, security options and reliability that you’re looking for.
How to use a password manager
Make sure you’re taking advantage of all that your password manager has to offer. Once all your passwords are stored in LastPass, you can focus on using the password generator to replace all accounts with new, strong passwords.
- Automatically sync everything you save – passwords, secure notes – across all your devices: desktop browser, tablet, smartphone, and more.
- Share passwords, whether they’re a friend or family member without the risk of compromising your data.
- Ensure someone you trust always has emergency access to your account.
- Use the Security Dashboard to see how your accounts measure up, and systematically address any weak or reused passwords.
- Enable Dark Web Monitoring to inform you of breached accounts.
Everyone needs a password manager to organize the dizzying number of online accounts and help protect against cyber threats. Do your future self a favor and finally tackle getting your digital life secured.
Let LastPass do the heavy lifting when it comes to your passwords. Start your free trial here.
